Autoimmune disease flare management and corticosteroid patient teaching priorities for the bedside nurse.
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- What is an autoimmune disease flare?
- A sudden, temporary worsening of disease signs and symptoms after a period of low activity or remission.
- What common illness event can trigger an autoimmune disease flare?
- An infection.
- In lupus, what environmental exposure commonly triggers a flare?
- Ultraviolet (UV) light/sun exposure.
- What psychological or physical factor commonly triggers an autoimmune flare?
- Stress, either physical or emotional.
- What are the classic signs of a rheumatoid arthritis joint flare?
- Joint swelling, warmth, tenderness, and redness.
- In rheumatoid arthritis, morning joint stiffness lasting longer than ____ suggests active disease.
- 30 minutes
- During an autoimmune flare, what is the nurse's priority assessment focus?
- Pain level and joint or functional status.
- Why can corticosteroids delay recognition of infection during a flare?
- They suppress the inflammatory response and can mask classic signs like fever.
- What is a priority nursing concern for a patient on immunosuppressive therapy during a flare?
- Increased risk of infection.
- What joint protection technique should be taught during a rheumatoid arthritis flare?
- Use larger, stronger joints and assistive devices instead of smaller joints for tasks.
- How should activity be balanced during an autoimmune flare?
- Combine rest with gentle range-of-motion activity; prolonged bed rest is avoided to prevent contractures.
- What should be monitored to detect lupus nephritis during a flare?
- Urine output and proteinuria or hematuria.
- The classic butterfly-shaped facial rash seen during a lupus flare is called a ____.
- malar rash
- What is a hallmark sign of a multiple sclerosis relapse?
- A new or worsening neurologic symptom, such as vision changes or limb weakness.
- In scleroderma, what should patients avoid to prevent triggering Raynaud's phenomenon?
- Cold temperature exposure.